Infant Toddler Development Training
Module 6, Lesson 5

Individualizing the IFSP to Address Health Issues

When a child has health issues that affect development, a team approach is essential. The primary medical doctor and all specialists should be consulted (with the family's signed permission) so that developmental strategies are not in conflict with medical protocols. In planning for a child with a cardiac condition, the team must assess the type and amount of activity that the child can tolerate with the child's need for oxygen and rest. The ITDS needs to be mindful that an infant or toddler will need more rest during the session. Skin color and respiratory rate and depth must be noted as activities are incorporated into the daily routines. Sometimes the team will decide that the best intervention is to delay an initiation of developmental activities until the heart repair is made.

Resources for Miscellaneous Medical Conditions

Children's Medical Services is Florida's agency that serves children with special health care needs. It is located within the Florida Department of Health. There is a local Children's Medical Services (CMS) program in every region of the state. The CMS program has information on chronic health conditions that affect infants and toddlers. The ITDS should be familiar with this resource so that information can be shared with families.

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